resilient and brave Algeria side managed to hold England to a goalless draw in Friday’s World Cup clash to keep alive their slim hopes of reaching the second round.

England could not find a way through Algeria’s steadfast defense throughout the game, appearing a shadow of the side who excelled in the qualifiers under highly-respected coach Fabio Capello.

Italian tactician Capello saw England, who were one of the pre-tournament favorites, claim their second point after settling for a 1-1 draw with the United States in their first game.

Algeria, the Arab’s sole representatives, notably improved after suffering a 1-0 loss to Slovenia last Sunday but still have an uphill to climb if they are to cause an upset and book a last-16 spot.

Surprise package Slovenia top Group C with four points, two ahead of the United States, whom they drew 2-2 with earlier in the day, and England.

Algeria, who are playing in the World Cup for the first time since 1986, lie at the bottom with one point.

The Desert Foxes should beat the United States in their last game to stand any chance of progressing to the knockout phase.